What you need to know

More than a decade after its introduction in 2013, after several generations and over 100 million devices sold, the end of the road has finally come for the Google Chromecast. The tech giant just confirmed that it will no longer be launching new variants of the popular video streaming device. The company is also discontinuing production of all Chromecast variants effective immediately, which in turn also means that a limited number of new Chromecast models will be available to buy. Google currently sells two variants of the Chromecast — a $40 4K variant (launching in 2020) and a $30 HD variant (launching in 2022), both of which are set to be discontinued soon.

While Google is ending production of the Chromecast, it’s not saying goodbye to the world of TV streamers. Google’s Chromecast replacement is a brand new device called the Google TV Streamer, which the company describes as a “next-generation AI-powered streaming and smart home device.”

Launched over a decade ago, Chromecast filled a huge gap in the market where streaming TVs were lacking. This tiny plug-and-play device also extended the life of several older TVs and gave them smart TV features. The introduction of Chromecast also made it easier for smartphone users to watch content from their smartphones directly on their big TV screen. The success of Chromecast prompted Google to develop Android TV, which is now used on over 220 million devices worldwide.

Everything you need to know about Google TV Streamer

The Google TV Streamer is a $100 Chromecast replacement. While it’s significantly more expensive than its predecessor, it does somewhat justify its price tag with a ton of extra features. Rather than just being a streaming tool, the Google TV Streamer also doubles as a smart home hub and integrates seamlessly with your existing Google Home environment. Google has also added support for Matter, which only adds to the appeal of the product. There’s also a significant difference in how the Google TV Streamer connects to the rest of the Home ecosystem. Unlike the Chromecast, which needs to be connected to your TV via an HDMI port, the Streamer is more of a standalone device that sits alongside your TV.

Google’s recent AI push also means that the Streamer supports Gemini, which could come in handy for everyday use. This integration will allow users to read summaries of their favorite shows and even get seasonal roundups of content that’s important to them. The seamless integration with Google Home also means that it’ll be easier for users to display things like their favorite Google Photos memories on their TVs using simple voice commands. With the Google TV Streamer, users will also be able to monitor the feed from their Nest cameras directly on their big TV screen. Other features, like controlling smart home lights, your air conditioner, and your window blinds, are all possible through the Streamer.

Google is offering the TV Steamer in two color options: Porcelain and Hazel. The device also comes with an ergonomic remote control with a custom button programmed to open your favorite streaming app. Pre-orders for the Google TV Streamer begin today, August 6, 2024, and the product will be available for purchase on September 24, 2024, for $99.99.